HC Deb 08 May 1933 vol 277 cc1203-4
2. Mr. DAVID GRENFELL

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he will make a statement regarding the health of the Meerut prisoners; and whether he will consider granting them the privileges accorded to Class A prisoners pending the hearing of the appeal against the verdict under which they are now detained in prison?

The UNDER SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Butler)

My latest report from the Government of India, dated 28th March, states that all the prisoners were in good health. As regards the second part of the question, I have nothing to add to the answer given by my right hon. Friend on 2nd March to the hon. Member for West Bermondsey (Dr. Salter).

Mr. GRENFELL

Does not the hon. Member believe that it will be of very great advantage, not only to the men concerned, but to the reputation of this country, if generosity is shown to these people at the present time?

Mr. BUTLER

The prisoners have already been placed in Class B by the local government on purpose, and every facility is being given to them to prepare their appeal.